Neutral or reverse?

[Ron Manicom]

Hello All

Yanmar has just released a TSB stating in no uncertain terms that when sailing their Kanzaki (sp?) must be in Neutral, this applies to both shaft and saildrive models, if you don't then the shift cones will start to vibrate which will ultimately put wear on the shift mechanism and cause premature failure of the transmission,

 Yanmar requires that if sailing with the engine OFF (not running) the transmission shifter must be in the neutral position or internal damage to the gear or sail-drive will result. This damage will not be covered by Yanmar’s Limited Warranty. Please instruct customers and dealers who deliver the sailboat to the customer, of the correct (Neutral) position for the marine gear while sailing.

If the customer desires that the propeller shaft not spin while sailing, either a folding propeller, shaft break, or other suitable device may be used. However, Yanmar accepts no responsibility for the selection, installation, or operation of such devices. Please also refer to Marine service advisory “MSA07-001_Yanmar Sail Drive Propeller Selection” for additional information.
Both Hurth and Westerbeke have wieghed in stating that in their case it makes no difference where the transmission is placed,

Ron Manicom